troubles with getting internet from other computer

i am trying to connect my friend's desktop computer (that doesnt have internet) to a laptop that connects wirelessly to the internet so that the desktop will have internet as well. (mainly because we have to put the laptop up so high that it is uncomfortable to use) but so far ive used the "add new connection" wizard in the connections folder and setup the laptop as a host computer that "supposedly" allows other computers to connect to the internet through that computer (with cables). i set up the desktop to connect as a guest computer that does the leeching part. im using an ethernet cable and ive tried all the different connection types in the properties for the connection, but it still wont connect. tho for some reason whenever i try to change the password of the account on the laptop it changes back to the original which, according to the password uncovery program i downloaded from here, is just XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. ive tried using that password on the desktop and it just gives me an error saying "Error 721: The remote computer did not respond. For further assistance, click More Info or search Help and Support Center for the error number." the help and support site wasnt exactly helpful which is why im asking here. and more info was real helpful either :/

please help